The story
Built in 1927, the Hotel Monte Vista has hosted Hollywood legends including John Wayne, Jane Russell, and Gary Cooper — but some of them may never have checked out. The most famous resident is the "Phantom Bellboy," reported to knock on room doors in the early morning and vanish into thin air. Room 305, known as the "John Wayne Room," is where guests report shadowy figures and beds shaking at night. The basement bar, the Monte V Bar, is said to be haunted by two bank robbers who were hanged from the light post outside in the 1970s.
What's reported here
Guests and staff report encounters with the Phantom Bellboy, who is said to knock on room doors before disappearing. Room 305, often known as the John Wayne Room, is associated with shadowy figures, shaking beds and unexplained noises. The Monte V Bar is also linked to sightings of two men believed by some to be bank robbers, along with reports of disembodied voices, cold spots and glasses moving without explanation.
History & background
Opened in 1927, the Hotel Monte Vista has welcomed generations of travellers, including Hollywood stars such as John Wayne, Jane Russell and Gary Cooper. The hotel remains one of Flagstaff's best-known historic landmarks, preserving its early twentieth-century character while continuing to operate as a hotel, restaurant and live music venue.